Social Policy Fellow, Social Policy, Education Politics Program

Social Policy Fellow

Third Way’s Social Policy, Education & Politics Program is seeking a Social Policy fellow to join our team and find ways to make progress on often divisive social issues like immigration, crime, LGBT equality, abortion, and guns.

The Third Way Fellows Program is a full‑time, 12‑month program that includes a $60,000 annual stipend, two weeks of paid vacation, comprehensive health care and benefits, and five paid Career Development Days dedicated to job searching, networking, and interviews.

The program also offers a chance to meet with Washington policy leaders; co‑author papers; collaborate with our policy teams; and learn Third Way’s methodology.

• Conduct in‑depth research and quantitative analysis of online databases, media, government, NGO, and academic reports.
• Produce high‑impact written products—policy briefings, memos, and presentations—under tight deadlines.
• Organize and participate in high‑level external meetings, briefings on Capitol Hill, professional networking events, and other activities to promote Third Way policies.
• Share research and policy ideas with Hill staff, advocates, think tanks, and academics through individual and coalition meetings and events around D.C.
• Support other team members with research and administrative tasks as needed.

$60,000 annual stipend, two weeks paid vacation, comprehensive health care and benefits.

Competencies

• A graduate degree (Master’s, J.D., or equivalent).
• Experience in public policy, including internships and coursework.
• Ability to explain complex concepts to a general audience in an engaging manner.

Desired Profile

• Interest in center‑left politics and commitment to Third Way’s mission.
• Advanced degree (master’s or law) in a related field.
• Ability to take initiative on individual projects while working collaboratively.
• Strong research and technical skills, with a talent for storytelling from datasets.
• Knowledge of or familiarity with relevant policy issues—especially immigration and/or crime.
• Knowledge of the legislative process and ability to explain concepts to policymakers.
• Diplomacy and discretion when dealing with external groups.

Fellows must also demonstrate strong technical skills, an aptitude to multitask across issue areas, creativity, and a deep commitment to representing Americans in the “vital center.”

This fellowship term will begin on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, and end on Thursday, August 12, 2027.

Medical, dental, and vision insurance;
Health Reimbursement Account;
Flexible Spending Account (FSA, DCA, Parking, and Transit); life insurance; accidental death & dismemberment insurance; retirement plan; accrued paid sick and vacation leave; long‑term disability; employee assistance program.

Third Way offers a flexible, hybrid work environment. The position is based in Washington, DC, with in‑office days on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Third Way is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to non‑discrimination. We will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable laws.

Third Way does not provide employment‑based visa sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship.